BELLE FOURCHE—Once again, several hundred kids, parents, and family members donned Halloween costumes for the annual walk down State Street beginning at 4:15 p.m. on October 31. Excited youngsters braved the chilly stroll to participate in the Center of the Nation Business Association’s (CONBA) Halloween Parade and festivities.
The event has been a longstanding tradition in the community for well over a decade. It was once proudly led by the late Pete Krush. Lee Hodge has stepped in to take on that leadership role over the past few years. Paying homage to the past leader, Hodge wore Pete’s bunny costume as he led the parade this year.
After walking the two-block route, kids who wanted to participate in the costume contest lined up along the end of the route, and judging began. There was an average of approximately 30 kids per category to be judged. The age groups were 8–10, 5–7, 3–4, and 0–2. The categories for each age division were prettiest, scariest, and most original. There was also a group/family category with first-, second-, and third-place awards given.
The judging takes quite a few volunteers to get through the large number of contestants at a fairly fast pace. “We have judging for the categories; there is anywhere from two to four judges per group, including the family group—there is a minimum of two judges,” explained Stacey Raisanen, CONBA member. “We had a few new judges this year. They are CONBA members, volunteers from the community, and a city council person—so a wide range of community members for judges.”
After judging was over and winners were crowned, they each took home cash prizes sponsored by the Center of the Nation Business Association. First place received $15, second place received $10, and third place received $5. The groups won a little more, with $25 for first, $20 for second, and $15 for third.
After the judging, kids were invited to trick-or-treat at the businesses up and down State Street. CONBA stays busy hosting events in the community. Preparations are already underway for their next event, Light Up the Night. Stores will be open to shop from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., with fireworks ready to go off at 7 p.m. behind the Tri-State Museum.
Look for CONBA at the Annual Community Chili Feed and Parade of Lights on the evening of November 28. “We may have the horse-drawn carriages again the night of the parade. That’s our portion for that night,” explained Raisanen.
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